Brighton RNLI wants six new lifeboat crew, and applications close Sunday

Brighton’s lifeboat station is recruiting six new volunteer crew and two launch authorities, and applications close on Sunday 25 October.

The station’s 8.5-metre Atlantic lifeboat had 81 taskings last year. The RNLI says the calls have shifted from boats and tows to people in the water: swimmers, and people who get into trouble on a paddleboard or kayak. There has been a lifeboat on Brighton beach since 1809 and a station since 1824.

The crew listing asks for a team player and a good communicator with general fitness and the ability to learn new skills. Applicants must be between 18 and 65 years of age. Training is provided. “We are not looking for heroes but for people who can be calm under pressure, who look out for others and who love to see their team thrive,” it says.

New crew will join two at a time over the next six months. They could be going to sea within a few months and should be full crew within 18 months. Crew carry pagers and attend regular exercises.

A launch authority works on land and is in command of the station when the Coastguard calls it out. That role needs you within 30 minutes of the station.

The station wants a crew that reflects the city, and welcomes applications from women, people from ethnically diverse backgrounds and LGBTQ+ people.